The Senate has set fresh conditions for the reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan following a Federal High Court judgment that nullified her six-month suspension.
Justice Binta Nyako, in her ruling on Friday, described the suspension as “excessive” and ordered the Kogi Central senator’s immediate reinstatement. Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March after a heated exchange with Senate President Godswill Akpabio over seating arrangements—an incident that escalated when she accused Akpabio of punishing her for rejecting alleged sexual advances, a claim the Senate President has strongly denied.
Court Cautions Senate on Representation
Presiding over the case (FHC/ABJ/CS/384/2025), Justice Nyako faulted provisions in the Senate Standing Rules and the Legislative Houses Powers and Privileges Act, which fail to specify time limits for suspension. She noted that a 180-day suspension violates the constitutional rights of constituents who are entitled to representation in the National Assembly.
“The Senate has the power to discipline its members, but not at the cost of depriving citizens of their voice in parliament,” the judge ruled.
Apology, Fine Ordered for Contempt
However, the court also found Akpoti-Uduaghan guilty of contempt for a satirical Facebook post made on April 27, which was deemed related to the ongoing case. The court ordered her to issue a formal apology in two national newspapers and on her Facebook page within seven days, and to pay a N5 million fine.
Senate: No Reinstatement Until She Complies
Responding to the ruling, Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu made it clear that reinstatement will not be automatic. He said the court did not override the Senate’s authority to discipline its members and emphasized that compliance with the court’s directives was now the senator’s responsibility.
“The onus is no more on us. It is already on her doorstep to apologise and pay the fine. Once she does that, the Senate will reconvene to deliberate on the next step,” he said.
Senate Lawyer: Ruling Is Partial Victory
Paul Dauda, SAN, counsel to the Senate, described the judgment as a partial win for the Red Chamber, especially concerning the contempt ruling. He stressed that the judge’s comment about the suspension being excessive was merely advisory and not a binding order.
“We will study the full judgment before taking further steps,” Dauda noted.
Atiku Weighs In
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar reacted on social media, applauding both the court and Akpoti-Uduaghan. He commended her courage in seeking redress and highlighted the importance of defending constitutional rights—especially for women in politics.
As the drama unfolds, Nigerians await whether Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan will meet the court’s conditions to reclaim her seat in the Red Chamber.
